Scion Swapping

At the Annual Scion Exchange, gardeners can swap heirloom varieties and learn techniques for grafting.

Scion: A detached living portion of a plant—such as a bud or shoot—that can be grafted onto rootstock to create a new plant that joins the strength of the rootstock with the desired characteristics of the scion. Gardeners interested in having heirloom varieties of fruit growing in their yard do this sort of grafting.

The Golden Gate Chapter of the California Rare Fruit Growers holds its Annual Scion Exchange, where gardeners bring scions from heirloom varieties of fruit grown in Northern California to trade. Rootstocks may be available to purchase (subject to weather). Introductory lessons in grafting are included with admission, and custom grafting services may be offered as well. The event includes a silent auction, a drawing for free plants (every ticket wins), parafilm and bulk citrus sales, and more. Admission: $5. Info: here